Meleane Vasitai Leaaepeni Falemaka, known to her friends and family as “Vasi,” is set to make her mark on the global stage as she prepares to compete in the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. Representing Tonga in the women’s F37 discus throw event, Vasi’s journey is one of quiet determination, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to overcoming the odds.
Growing up in Fasi moe Afi, a suburb of Tonga’s capital, Nuku’alofa, Vasi was a reserved child who preferred the company of her thoughts over the hustle and bustle of social interactions. Her early years were shaped by a supportive family who nurtured her development, instilling in her the values of perseverance and self-belief. While she enjoyed playing soccer during her school years, participating in intercollege games, the path that would lead her to the Paralympics was not one she initially envisioned.
Vasi’s life took a dramatic turn in 2010 when she suffered a stroke that resulted in paralysis on the right side of her body. This life-altering event could have derailed her dreams, but instead, it became a catalyst for a new chapter in her life. Despite the physical and emotional challenges that came with her condition, Vasi remained determined to live a full and meaningful life. It was this determination that caught the attention of the Tonga National Paralympic Committee (TNPC).
Three years ago, the TNPC reached out to Vasi, encouraging her to take up the discus throw. Although it was a sport she had never considered, the committee’s faith in her potential sparked a new passion within her. Under the guidance of the TNPC President and Coach, Vasi began training rigorously, committing herself to a demanding schedule that included daily gym sessions and evening discus practices. Her journey was fraught with obstacles, including limited access to proper training facilities and transportation challenges, but Vasi’s resolve never wavered.
Her hard work and dedication paid off in April 2024, when she competed in the World Para Athletics Grand Prix in Marrakech, Morocco. There, she achieved a personal best throw of 16.68 meters, ranking fifth, surpassing her previous record and securing her spot at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games. This accomplishment is a testament to Vasi’s perseverance and her ability to rise above adversity.
Vasi’s athletic prowess is not limited to the discus throw. She also made a name for herself in table tennis, being the only female athlete on the Tonga Table Tennis Federation’s para-team that won bronze at the 2023 Pacific Games in the Solomon Islands. Her versatility as an athlete and her dedication to her sport are truly inspiring.
As she prepares for her Paralympic debut in Paris, Vasi remains focused on her goals. Her journey is a powerful reminder that with faith, determination, and the support of a loving community, anything is possible. She hopes that her story will inspire others facing similar challenges to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles.
Vasi’s motto, “Trust in God, never give up, and be yourself,” encapsulates her approach to life. She advocates for greater recognition and support for individuals with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. As Vasi steps onto the world stage in Paris, she carries with her the hopes of her nation and the dreams of countless others who see in her a beacon of hope and resilience.
